Frank Lampard has announced that he is leaving Chelsea for a new challenge this summer.
The
midfielder is the club's all-time top scorer with 211 goals and has
played 648 games at Stamford Bridge. However, Lampard's contract runs
out this summer and he has decided to continue his future elsewhere --
with New York City FC interested having already snapped up Spain forward
David Villa.
Lampard won the Premier League three times,
alongside four FA Cups, two League Cups, a Champions League title and
one Europa League during his time in South West London.
In a
statement, Lampard said: "When I arrived at this fantastic club 13 years
ago I would never have believed that I would be fortunate enough to
play so many games and enjoy sharing in so much success.
"This
club has become part of my life and I have so many people to thank for
the opportunity. Firstly, Ken Bates, who put his neck on the line to
sign me as a young player and without him I would not have even begun
this experience.
"Roman Abramovich, the man who saved our Club and
took us all to new levels. His desire to push the Club to the top of
the football world has rubbed off on everyone.
"All the managers
and coaches who have helped me develop my game during the time I have
been here. I have learnt from every one of them.
"All the
brilliant team mates who I have been lucky enough to train and play
alongside for so long. Not just their football qualities but also the
friendships I have gained along the way.
"I'd also like to give a
special mention to all the staff and people behind the scenes at the
club who do not receive the glory but without them the Club would simply
not function.
"The club will move forward, and as a Chelsea man I
have no doubt that with the quality of the players that are there, they
will continue with the success that we have all enjoyed over the past
seasons.
"Finally and most importantly, I would like to thank the
Chelsea fans. I believe they are the greatest fans in world football.
You have supported me from the moment I arrived. Not only on the pitch,
but in difficult moments in my personal life off the pitch. I will never
forget.
"I feel honoured to have shared so many special times
with you. Bolton, Amsterdam, Munich, the list goes on and on. I, and we
as a team, could not have achieved those moments without your support.
"Whatever
the next challenge is for me I will always be amongst you and have
Chelsea in my home and in my heart. Hopefully I will get to see you all
soon to say goodbye properly. In the meantime thank you for the memories
and keep making history!"
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